Preston research helps expose pay rates at big four supermarkets

Preston has been praised for its role in exposing the lack of a living wage being paid by the big four supermarkets in the city.

The city was one of four places researched in the Fair Pay Commission’s report, which showed Asda, Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Morrisons paid below the £7.20 an hour to 90% of its workforce.

The report found 70% of supermarket workers did not feel they earn enough.

Co-author of the report, Andy Birchall, said: “The Fair Pay Network was supportive of Preston’s bid to pay and promote the living wage when it became one of the first council’s to do so.

“Preston is again playing its part in this campaign to get the big four supermarkets to pay the living wage not only in Preston but across the country.”

In September last year the city council made a commitment to the living wage, with every employee being paid £7.20 an hour.

Councillor Matthew Brown, Cabinet member for community engagement and inclusion said: “With the council’s focus on the living wage it is no coincidence that Preston was chosen as one of the four areas used in this report. The report clearly shows there is potential for the big four supermarkets to pay the living wage of £7.20 an hour. This would help to raise people’s living standards and be a much needed boost to the UK economy.

“We hope the big four take notice of the report and follow the actions of employers like ourselves, the Olympic Delivery Authority, KPMG, Barclays and Glasgow City Council in paying the living wage to employees.”